What's Happening?
Dricus Du Plessis lost his UFC Middleweight title to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319 in Las Vegas. The fight was dominated by Chimaev's wrestling, which left Du Plessis unable to mount significant offense. Du Plessis' head coach, Morne Visser, expressed dissatisfaction with the referee's performance, suggesting that the referee should have been more proactive in breaking up Chimaev's control on the ground. Visser believes that Chimaev was able to maintain positions without advancing, which should have prompted the referee to stand the fight up. Despite the loss, Du Plessis remains a prominent figure in the division, with plans to improve his wrestling skills before seeking a rematch.
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Why It's Important?
The outcome of this fight has significant implications for the UFC Middleweight division. Chimaev's victory solidifies his position as a dominant force in the division, while Du Plessis' loss highlights the importance of wrestling skills in MMA. The criticism of the referee's role underscores ongoing debates about officiating standards in the sport. For Du Plessis, the focus on improving his wrestling could lead to a more competitive rematch in the future, potentially altering the dynamics of the division.
What's Next?
Du Plessis and his team plan to focus on improving their wrestling techniques before considering a rematch with Chimaev. This strategic shift indicates a period of training and development rather than immediate competition. The UFC may also explore other matchups for Chimaev, given his current momentum and the interest in seeing him defend his title against other top contenders.
